Over 90 Evangelical Lutheran Church (E.L.C) leaders from the Amele Circuit in Ambenob Local Level Government (LLG) in Madang province gathered last week for a week-long Pastors’ and Evangelists Conference, aimed at strengthening leadership skill, deepening biblical knowledge, and fostering unity among denominations. This was the first of its kind from the E.L.C parish to host such an event in the province. This event is for uniting all pastors and evangelists to come together as one and maintain the identity, philosophy and doctrine of the church. The event, hosted by the Nobonob Parish, ran from Monday to Friday at the Kamgogwa Church in Kamba village. It featured daily sessions of worship, keynote addresses, Bible teaching, and workshops on community outreach, youth ministry and pastoral care. Special guests included local E.L.C parish pastors, Pastor Kwambi from Nobonob parish, Pastor Kirarok from the Bel parish, Pastor Markuk from Banub and the E.L.C Amele Circuit president, Evangelist Aigun Bahude, who were present to witness the event. Parishioner and community leader Meliaky Oss gave his utmost gratitude for the event. "This is very important for the entire community and for the new generation that will be coming in. Something that I would really treasure as a parishioner,” he commented. Pastor Anton from the Nobonob parish spoke on the importance of unity in the church. “Church leaders must not speak in different languages but in one. That one language must be working in unity and sharing the good news as one.” Participants also engaged in open discussions on challenges facing the church, including social issues, youth unemployment, and the role of the church in promoting peace and unity in the community. They also added evening fellowship programs providing opportunities for networking, prayer and sharing testimonies. Meanwhile, Chairman, Kenneth Bayom from the Kamgogwa church said the gathering was a timely encouragement for our community. “This conference has reminded us of how our great- great grandfathers have brought the church to the community and that we are not alone and that the church is one body.” The event closed on Friday with a joint communion service, where pastors recommitted themselves to their calling. Organizers have already announced plans to make an annual event, rotating between the eight E.L.C circuits in Madang province to reach more church leaders.